Dry powder fire extinguishers are excellent all-round fire extinguishers, often recommended for use on vehicles and in the home. All powder fire extinguishers are red with a blue panel, are either ABC or BC rated and are safe to be used on fires involving electrical equipment. (Remember to look for the electrical safety pictogram.)

Dry powder extinguishers are not suitable for use in enclosed spaces such as offices, hotels, schools, etc, as the fire-fighting agent creates a cloud that can obscure vision. The contents may also create breathing problems.

How Dry Powder Fire Extinguishers Work

Dry powder fire extinguishers contain an extinguishing agent, which is propelled out of the extinguisher body by a compressed, non-flammable gas. The agent forms a ‘blanket’ over the fire, smothering it and preventing re-ignition. All used powder residue must be cleaned away and properly disposed of once the fire is extinguished.

Sodium bicarbonate is an effective fire extinguishing agent as it decomposes at 158 degrees F, releasing CO2 which starves the fire of oxygen.